Joybuy Insights

Choosing wireless earbuds: how to avoid a costly mistake

Wireless earbuds are handy for listening to music, making calls, travelling, working and exercising. But a long list of features doesn’t automatically mean a model will suit your day-to-day needs. Terms such as “noise cancellation”, “waterproof” and “long battery life” deserve a closer look.

Before you buy, watch out for these three common pitfalls:

  1. Battery claims without a clear testing method
    The stated playtime often applies under specific conditions, such as with noise cancellation switched off. Check whether battery life is given per earbud, including the charging case or under particular settings.

  2. Water-resistant doesn’t mean suitable for submersion
    An IPX4 rating is designed to protect against splashes and sweat. It doesn’t make a set suitable for swimming or heavy rain. Higher IP ratings have their limits too. Always check whether the charging case has the same protection as the earbuds.

  3. Smart features that don’t work with every phone
    Features such as AI translation support, spatial audio or automatic noise adjustment may depend on an app, operating system or compatible smartphone. A Bluetooth connection alone doesn’t guarantee that every feature will be available.

Which specifications matter?

1. Bluetooth version and connection

Most wireless earbuds use Bluetooth. A newer version can help provide an efficient connection and lower power consumption, but your experience also depends on your phone, distance and software.

Bluetooth 5.3 and Bluetooth 5.4 are common in modern TWS earbuds. Multipoint is also useful if you switch between devices such as a laptop and smartphone. Make sure multipoint is specifically listed in the product specifications.

Features within the Apple ecosystem are often easier to activate for iPhone users. Android and Samsung users should check whether a companion app is available and which features it supports.

2. ANC, ENC and ambient sound

Active noise cancellation, often referred to as ANC, uses microphones and processing to reduce ambient noise. This can be useful on the train, in the office or on a flight. However, ANC won’t make your earbuds completely silent and may reduce battery life.

ENC is generally designed to improve speech during phone calls. According to product descriptions, it helps reduce background noise picked up by the microphone. This is different from ANC, which is used when listening to music.

A transparency mode or open-ear design may be a better choice when you need to hear traffic, colleagues or other sounds around you. Don’t use noise cancellation when cycling, driving or in other situations where you need to stay aware of your surroundings.

3. Battery, charging and comfort

Look out for three separate figures:

  • playtime from a single earbud;
  • total playtime with the charging case;
  • the extra playtime provided by a short charge.

A model with USB-C works with many modern phones, tablets and laptops. Wireless charging is convenient, but not essential. Check the fit too. In-ear models with silicone tips usually create a better seal, while open-ear and clip-on models can make it easier to hear what’s going on around you.

For sports, a secure fit and a suitable IP rating matter more than a high battery claim alone. Also check whether the charging case needs to stay dry, even if the earbuds themselves are splash-resistant.

Recommendations for different users

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
REDMI Buds 8 Active White True Wireless Semi-In-Ear Bluetooth Earphones

REDMI Buds 8 Active White True Wireless Semi-In-Ear Bluetooth Earphones

Why it suits this profile: A straightforward semi-in-ear set for everyday listening, calls and travel, without the need to fiddle with lots of settings.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specifications list battery life separately: up to 7 hours from the earbuds and up to 37 hours with the charging case. They also state the earbuds’ IP54 rating, so you won’t mistake it for full waterproofing.

Key benefit & features

Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C, dual-microphone noise cancellation according to the product information, and a weight of approximately 3.8 grams per earbud.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Earbuds (2nd Gen) Black

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Bluetooth Earbuds (2nd Gen) Black

Why it suits this profile: Designed for listeners who value adjustable sound modes, multipoint connectivity and a more comprehensive selection of fit options.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The set offers both Active Noise Cancelling and Aware Mode. Its IPX4 rating makes clear that it’s resistant to splashes and sweat, not designed for submersion.

Key benefit & features

Bluetooth 5.3, multipoint, USB-C and wireless charging. The stated playtime is up to 6 hours per charge.

Suitable for: Specialist uses & heavy users
Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro True Wireless in-ear Active Noise Cancelling Headphones Black

Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro True Wireless in-ear Active Noise Cancelling Headphones Black

Why it suits this profile: A natural choice for Samsung users looking for ANC, extensive audio settings and a higher water and dust resistance rating.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The specifications give separate playtimes with ANC switched on and off: up to 6 and 7 hours respectively. According to the product information, IP57 applies to the earbuds; swimming or prolonged submersion isn’t recommended.

Key benefit & features

Bluetooth 6.1, six microphones, 2-way speakers, USB-C, wireless charging and up to 30 hours of total playtime without ANC, according to the product specifications.

Suitable for: Travel, study and language support
HTC NE20 Wireless AI Language Translation Earbuds Bluetooth 5.4

HTC NE20 Wireless AI Language Translation Earbuds Bluetooth 5.4

Why it suits this profile: An interesting option for users who want to combine a built-in microphone and touch controls with potential translation features for travel or study.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description says that translation features may work through a compatible mobile app. Before buying, check that your phone and the languages you need are supported. No specific water resistance rating is listed, so don’t submerge the set.

Key benefit & features

Bluetooth 5.4, LED charging case, touch controls, built-in microphone and support for TWS use.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety requirements.

Frequently asked questions about wireless earbuds

Do Bluetooth earbuds work with both iPhone and Android?

Yes, basic features such as connecting, playing music and making calls usually work via Bluetooth on both platforms. Extra features, such as an equaliser, firmware updates or translation, may depend on a specific app or phone. Check the product information for compatibility.

How long do wireless earbuds last?

Playtime per charge varies by model and settings. Battery capacity decreases over time, especially after many charging cycles and exposure to heat. Store your earbuds in the charging case and use suitable USB-C accessories. Many consumer products in the EU are covered by a statutory guarantee of at least two years; this is separate from normal battery wear.

Are noise-cancelling earbuds suitable for exercise?

That depends on the fit, IP rating and surroundings. For fitness, a model rated IPX4 or higher may be suitable for sweat and light splashes, provided the manufacturer confirms this. When running on public roads, a transparency mode or open-ear design may be a better choice, as it helps you hear traffic and other sounds around you.